Intrax Deadlines

Australia - Academic Year/Semester

Program Details
Full Brochure

Students who choose an academic year or a semester program in Australia will live with a host family and attend a local public high school.

Learn

The educational system of Australia is recognized worldwide. The range of subjects offered varies from school to school. Typical course subjects you will be studying include: foreign language (usually French or Asian languages), math, English, science and physical education. Some schools offer optional classes, such as music or computer science. Every school has a local representative who will help Intrax Study Abroad students choose appropriate subjects and organize their academic schedule on the first day of class.

The school year in Australia runs from January to November. However, the Intrax Study Abroad program is adapted so that Americans may spend an academic year in Australia from July to May. The school year is generally divided into four terms, with two week vacations between each term. Students also get six weeks off for "summer vacation" from the beginning of December through late January. Students are required to wear uniforms and the typical school day starts at 9:00 am and goes until 3:30 pm.

Experience

The Australian lifestyle is very laid-back and friendly. Students enjoy the welcoming atmosphere as they become part of their new host family. Sports usually play a major role in the social life of Australian high school students. Cricket is the most popular national sport. However, many people enjoy other sports such as: soccer, Australian-rules football, rugby, basketball, cycling, bush walking (hiking), tennis, lawn bowling, golf, and water sports, such as surfing, swimming, and kayaking. Many girls learn netball, a game similar to basketball. Going to the beach and camping are common outdoor activities. Australians can be enthusiastic spectators as well; the Melbourne Cup horse race is actually a state holiday in Victoria!

Many students enjoy going to the movies. The Australian film industry is one of the largest and most successful in the world and is responsible for films such as “Muriel’s Wedding,” “Babe,” “Rabbit Proof Fence,” and “Strictly Ballroom.” All of Australia’s major cities have dance, theater, and symphony performances.

Program Details

Optional group excursions and activities give program participants the opportunity to stay in contact with one another and allow students to explore various cultural attractions in Australia. These trips are available for an additional fee and include a Cairns trip and a Sydney trip, among others. Detailed information will be provided once students are on program.

Intrax Study Abroad students studying in Australia are placed with carefully selected host families. Students are commonly placed in families living in Queensland on the east side of Australia. Adjustment to host family life and Australian culture will be assisted by a local representative. Students are required to apply for a visa for all programs to Australia.

Requirements

• 15-18 years old (19 year old students may be considered on a case by case basis)
• 2.5 GPA or higher (4.0 scale)
• Flexible and mature personality; desire to be challenged, ability to remain open-minded and tolerant of cultural differences

Program Information

Program Includes:

• Round-trip airfare from a major international airport near your home (in the continental U.S.) including domestic and international flights
• Airport transfers on arrival and departure
• Homestay accommodation including meals with your host family
• Placement in a local high school
• Student health and accident insurance
• 24-hour emergency assistance
• Pre-departure and in-country orientations
• Supervision, guidance, and support during the application process and throughout the program
• Intrax T-Shirt ( girls | boys )
• Intrax Student Handbook

Program does not include:

• Passport and visa application fees as applicable
• Personal expenses (e.g., toiletries, clothing, internet, calling card, activities)
• School expenses (e.g., uniform/lunches, if required, supplies, bus pass)
• Any other item not specified

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